Symphonies

Symphony Sym"pho*ny, n.; pl. {Symphonies}. [F. symphonie (cf. It. sinfonia), L. symphonia, Gr. ?; sy`n with + ? a sound, the voice. See {Phonetic}.] 1. A consonance or harmony of sounds, agreeable to the ear, whether the sounds are vocal or instrumental, or both. [1913 Webster]

The trumpets sound, And warlike symphony in heard around. --Dryden. [1913 Webster]

2. A stringed instrument formerly in use, somewhat resembling the virginal. [1913 Webster]

With harp and pipe and symphony. --Chaucer. [1913 Webster]

3. (Mus.) (a) An elaborate instrumental composition for a full orchestra, consisting usually, like the sonata, of three or four contrasted yet inwardly related movements, as the allegro, the adagio, the minuet and trio, or scherzo, and the finale in quick time. The term has recently been applied to large orchestral works in freer form, with arguments or programmes to explain their meaning, such as the ``symphonic poems'' of Liszt. The term was formerly applied to any composition for an orchestra, as overtures, etc., and still earlier, to certain compositions partly vocal, partly instrumental. (b) An instrumental passage at the beginning or end, or in the course of, a vocal composition; a prelude, interlude, or postude; a ritornello. [1913 Webster]